devastating / crushing
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devastating
Describes criticism, a judgment, or a statement that is extremely negative, harsh, and crushing. Such a statement often leaves no room for positive aspects.
Der Kritiker schrieb eine vernichtende Rezension über das neue Theaterstück.
The critic wrote a devastating review of the new play.
'Vernichtend' (devastating/crushing) is the present participle of the verb 'vernichten' (to destroy/annihilate). This verb literally means 'to make into nothing' and expresses total destruction, which explains the extreme strength of the adjective.
Das Feuer hatte eine vernichtende Kraft.
The fire had devastating force.
In this meaning, 'vernichtend' (devastating) describes an extremely negative evaluation. It is often combined with words such as 'Kritik' (criticism), 'Urteil' (judgment), 'Bericht' (report), or 'Rezension' (review).
Sein Urteil über den Film war vernichtend.
His judgment of the film was devastating.
In a sports or military context, 'vernichtend' (crushing) is often used with the word 'Niederlage' (defeat). You can also say that one team 'vernichtend geschlagen' (crushed/defeated decisively) the other.
Die Mannschaft musste eine vernichtende Niederlage einstecken.
The team had to suffer a crushing defeat.
clear / clearly
'deutlich' and 'vernichtend' can both appear with judgments, criticism, or defeats. But they do not mean the same thing. 'deutlich' means that something is clearly recognizable or happens to a high degree, for example 'eine deutliche Niederlage' (a clear defeat). 'vernichtend' is much stronger and negative: 'eine vernichtende Kritik' (devastating criticism) or 'eine vernichtende Niederlage' (a crushing defeat) is very harsh and leaves hardly anything positive. Learners may confuse the words because both can express intensity. The important point is: 'deutlich' is clear or strong, while 'vernichtend' is extremely negative or destructive.
Die Kritik an dem neuen Plan war vernichtend.
The criticism of the new plan was devastating.
Im Gespräch sagte meine Schwester deutlich, dass sie den Job wechseln will.
During the conversation, my sister clearly said that she wants to change jobs.